NPR

Priceless connections to Hawaii's ancient past were lost when cultural center burned

As people grapple with more than 100 people who died in the Lahaina fire on Maui, they're still trying to understand the loss of priceless artifacts and their connections to the island's ancient past.
Rochel Kitajima, a nurse, has taken in family members who lost their home. Her son's school has burned down. It is also the school where she and her husband attended. She is helping out at Honokowai Beach Park, a community gathering spot since the Lahaina Fire.

MAUI, Hawaii — It could be a long time before the full extent of human loss is known after the wildfires. The official death is more than 110 and expected to keep growing.

While people are grappling with that news, they're still trying to understand the loss of priceless artifacts and their connections to the island's ancient past.

The Na 'Aikane o Maui Cultural and Research Center was

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